50+ Lifestyles

On the Go With Joe Hutter

Seniors And Law
Enforcement Together (SALT)

By Joe Hutter

January is gone, and spring is not far away. The months and seasons change, but there are still those who prey upon seniors who do not change.

I received a call from a reader who got a phone call from someone requesting some of her personal information. She remembered what she read in this column and refused to give the requested information. She hung up the phone.

Another person got a letter from U.S. Air Promotions with no return address from Phoenix, Arizona. The letter is signed by a Janet Ray, Vice President. The person who got the letter was supposed to call an 800 number. Please beware of letters and phone calls from anyone you do not know!

Another item to watch out for is payday loans. A person could get a $200 loan and, like the case of a 67- year-old woman in Kentucky, end up paying $1,450 in fees. A 2011 report stated about 25 percent of people that borrow money are on Social Security. If you need to borrow money, contact a bank. Definitely talk to a close friend or relative before you go deep in debt.

When you buy a car, you should also seek help from a friend or relative. Take a person with you when are looking to buy a car. Find out what your car is worth and a fair price for the car you plan to purchase.

It looks like Salute to Senior Day will be on May 9 and Senior Day at the Mississippi Valley Fair will be on August 1.

Plans are being made to have a program for seniors at CASI about items to be aware of to prevent yourself from becoming a victim of crime. All area sheriff and police departments are there to help you.

Our Triad group will be meeting on February 27 at 9:30 a.m. at CASI in Davenport. You are invited to attend as there are no requirements.

Remember – do not give your money to anyone or any organization if you are not familiar with them. If in doubt, call the Iowa Attorney General’s Office at 1-888-777-4590.

Take care.